Detailed Port Descriptions

Day 1 Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands

The largest of French Polynesia's 118 islands, Tahiti and it's capital city of Papeete are the perfect place to begin your South Pacific sojourn. The Gauguin waits patiently in the harbor, a vibrant and bustling market across the street and in the evenings roulottes (food trucks) line the nearby square offering tasty local fare.

Days 2&3 Fakarava, Tuamotu Islands

Fakarava is an unspoiled paradise in every sense of the word. In addition to the many rare species of plants and animals, you’ll find in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it’s also a place of cultural and historical significance, with charming villages, ancient temples, and spectacular coral churches.

Day 4 Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands

Life is beautifully simple in Rangiroa, the largest atoll of the Tuamotu Archipelago in the eastern Pacific Ocean. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture. Tour a local black pearl farm, wander the village of Avatoru, or visit Dominique Auroy Winery, which produces French Polynesia’s only wine label.

Day 5 Huahine, Society Islands

Don’t be fooled by the vibe of this laid-back, secluded island. Many treasures are hidden among the lush rainforest and dramatic terrain. With a bit of exploration, you’ll uncover some of the best-preserved archeological sites in French Polynesia. Underwater treasures await as well, with a snorkel excursion in the lagoon.

Days 6 & 7 Bora Bora, Society Islands

Explore lush peaks, wander white-sand beaches, and marvel at the iconic views of Mount Otemanu. Take the plunge with a SCUBA excursion to see the island’s colorful coral reefs, enjoy a sunset jetboat ride, or spend a lazy afternoon on our private beach. Like a priceless Paul Gauguin painting come to life, storied Bora Bora is colorful and unforgettable. The landscape alone will have you searching for adequate adjectives, especially once you see the lagoon—“turquoise” just doesn’t do it justice.

Day 8              Raiatea, Society Islands

Blanketed in a lush landscape dotted with waterfalls, fertile valleys, and the cloud-capped Mt. Temehani, Raiatea is Polynesia’s most sacred island; it was from here that the earliest migrations set forth to settle in Hawaii, New Zealand, and beyond. The island boasts a rich Maohi history–it is home to the UNESCO-listed Marae Taputapuatea archaeological site–verdant mountains ideal for hiking, and a stunning lagoon perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and soaking up the heavenly tranquility.

Day 9    Taha’a, Society Islands (Motu Mahana)

As the day unfolds in front of you, where will you go? Exciting shore excursions await, but so does Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin Cruises’ own private islet. Choose from swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or simply lounging on the beach with a cold drink from our floating bar. Les Gauguines are also on hand to share musical entertainment and Polynesian crafts.

Day 10 Moorea, Society Islands

Step into a vibrant, colorful world in bright and beautiful Moorea, which welcomes you with azure lagoons, impossibly fresh tropical fruits, stunning mountain peaks and palm-fringed beaches. Commune with nature on an optional dolphin-watching excursion with an expert marine biologist. Afterwards, spend some time getting to know the local residents while shopping for handmade crafts.

Days 10 & 11 Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands

On October 3rd, you will disembark after a fun filled time in French Polynesia.